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March052015

Stocks End Lower; Nasdaq Falls Below 5,000 - Yahoo Finance

Stocks will beat bonds in coming years: Jim Paulsen - Yahoo News

Market Stocks were lower this morning as the Nasdaq fell below the 5,000 level if hit for the first time since the year 2000 yesterday. Auto sales slowed down in February to 16.23 million on an annualized seasonally adjusted rate due to poor weather, less than the 16.7 million expected by economists. GM (GM) sales were up 4.2%, Chrysler (FCAU) sales rose 5.6% while Ford (F) sales dropped 1.9% due to inventory issues with the firms new F-150 truck. At market close the Dow and S&P 500 were each down 0.5% while the Nasdaq was off 0.6%. The company said it earned $1.46 a share in the quarter, up from 83 cents a share in the year-ago quarter. [source]Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-end-lower-nasdaq-falls-213000861.html

Hoteliers, media companies, and auto-related stocks have also outperformed, according to optionsMONSTER's proprietary researchLAB market scanner. The Nasdaq has been the other major source of strength on its way to reaching the 5000 mark, led by e-commerce stocks, software makers and solar-energy. Utilities have lagged as rising interest rates reduce the appeal of their dividends. Brent crude oil gained 2 percent and West Texas Intermediate is up almost 1 percent this morning. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-hovering-near-record-levels-131541538.html

Stocks hovering near record levels - Yahoo Finance

consumer electronics chain, reported better-than-expected earnings results . Total same-store sales rose 2% during the fourth quarter, slightly better than the 1.9% rise estimated. Same-store sales rose 2.8% in the second straight quarter of growth after three consecutive periods of declines. Net income attributable to Best Buy shareholders jumped to $519 million, or $1.46 per share, from $293 million, or 83 cents per share, a year earlier. Revenues jumped 1% to $14.21 billion from a year earlier. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-fall-us-auto-sales-210000132.html

He believes that bonds are fairly overpriced and have some tough times ahead of them. Paulsen analyzed the capital-labor ratio, the ratio of the quantity of capital to the quantity of labor, since the post-war era and found that when the ratio rises, so do stocks. When it stops rising, bonds are able to hold their own. The ratio, he says, rose after World War II into the 1970s and then briefly during the dot-com boom in the late 90s. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/stocks-will-beat-bonds-in-coming-years--jim-paulson-143148567.html

Stocks Pulling Back Further Off Their Recent Highs - U.S. Commentary - NASDAQ.com

Economists currently expect the Labor Department report to show an increase of about 230,000 jobs in the month of February. While a separate report from the Institute for Supply Management showed an unexpected uptick by its reading on service sector activity, the internals were mixed. Steel stocks have shown a substantial move to the downside in early trading, dragging the NYSE Arca Steel Index down by 2.5 percent. L.B. Foster ( FSTR ) is leading the sector lower after being downgraded to Hold from Buy by Stifel. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/stocks-pulling-back-further-off-their-recent-highs--us-commentary-20150304-00723

Stocks End Lower; Nasdaq Falls Below 5,000 - Yahoo Finance

Stocks will beat bonds in coming years: Jim Paulsen - Yahoo News

Market Stocks were lower this morning as the Nasdaq fell below the 5,000 level if hit for the first time since the year 2000 yesterday. Auto sales slowed down in February to 16.23 million on an annualized seasonally adjusted rate due to poor weather, less than the 16.7 million expected by economists. GM (GM) sales were up 4.2%, Chrysler (FCAU) sales rose 5.6% while Ford (F) sales dropped 1.9% due to inventory issues with the firms new F-150 truck. At market close the Dow and S&P 500 were each down 0.5% while the Nasdaq was off 0.6%. The company said it earned $1.46 a share in the quarter, up from 83 cents a share in the year-ago quarter. [source]Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-end-lower-nasdaq-falls-213000861.html

Hoteliers, media companies, and auto-related stocks have also outperformed, according to optionsMONSTER's proprietary researchLAB market scanner. The Nasdaq has been the other major source of strength on its way to reaching the 5000 mark, led by e-commerce stocks, software makers and solar-energy. Utilities have lagged as rising interest rates reduce the appeal of their dividends. Brent crude oil gained 2 percent and West Texas Intermediate is up almost 1 percent this morning. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-hovering-near-record-levels-131541538.html

Stocks hovering near record levels - Yahoo Finance

consumer electronics chain, reported better-than-expected earnings results . Total same-store sales rose 2% during the fourth quarter, slightly better than the 1.9% rise estimated. Same-store sales rose 2.8% in the second straight quarter of growth after three consecutive periods of declines. Net income attributable to Best Buy shareholders jumped to $519 million, or $1.46 per share, from $293 million, or 83 cents per share, a year earlier. Revenues jumped 1% to $14.21 billion from a year earlier. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-fall-us-auto-sales-210000132.html

He believes that bonds are fairly overpriced and have some tough times ahead of them. Paulsen analyzed the capital-labor ratio, the ratio of the quantity of capital to the quantity of labor, since the post-war era and found that when the ratio rises, so do stocks. When it stops rising, bonds are able to hold their own. The ratio, he says, rose after World War II into the 1970s and then briefly during the dot-com boom in the late 90s. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/stocks-will-beat-bonds-in-coming-years--jim-paulson-143148567.html

Stocks Pulling Back Further Off Their Recent Highs - U.S. Commentary - NASDAQ.com

Economists currently expect the Labor Department report to show an increase of about 230,000 jobs in the month of February. While a separate report from the Institute for Supply Management showed an unexpected uptick by its reading on service sector activity, the internals were mixed. Steel stocks have shown a substantial move to the downside in early trading, dragging the NYSE Arca Steel Index down by 2.5 percent. L.B. Foster ( FSTR ) is leading the sector lower after being downgraded to Hold from Buy by Stifel. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/stocks-pulling-back-further-off-their-recent-highs--us-commentary-20150304-00723

Energy Dow Jones U.S. Energy Fund (IYE) was flat while Energy Select Sector SPDR (XLE) was down 1.3%. Ballard Power Systems (BLDP) was up 15.35% after the provider of clean-energy products said it has signed two new fuel-cell technology contracts, one with Ardica Technologies and one with an unnamed global automotive original equipment manufacturer. Under each contract, Ballard will provide expertise in proton exchange membrane fuel-cell technology to advance customer programs through development stages, the company said. Commodities Crude was down 3.23%. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/etf-preview-etfs-futures-lower-ahead-of-existing-homes-sales-data-investors-await-yellen-testimony-cm446965

Lydon highlighted the Deutsche X-Trackers MSCI Europe Hedged Equity ETF ( DBEU ) and the WisdomTree Europe Hedged Equity Fund (NYSEArca: HEDJ) as ways for investors to play the strong dollar while profiting from resurgent European equities. HEDJ and DBEU are two of this years top asset gathering ETFs. DBEU has nearly doubled in size this year while HEDJ is close to becoming the largest U.S.-listed Europe ETF. Watch the video below to see the full interview. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/lydon-talks-currency-hedged-europe-215447719.html

Lydon Talks Currency Hedged Europe ETFs on CNBC - Yahoo Finance

A few days back, the ECB had announced that it would no longer accept Greek see page government debt as collateral for regular central bank loans, cutting off access to a key source of funding for Greek banks (read: Greek ETF Faces Volatility on ECB Move ). However, dark clouds will still be hovering around Athens as the current extension is just for four months, and Greece would still have to negotiate a rescue deal for almost 7 billion in bond repayments to the ECB in July and August. Though the four-month extension is less than the six-month extension request by Athens, it nonetheless avoids the market turmoil had the bailout expired at the end of this week. The deal provides some relief to Greece's deteriorating finances and should temporarily halt the mounting capital flight from its banks. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/grek-etf-in-focus-on-bailout-extension-etf-news-and-commentary-cm447997

Take the oldest bond ETF, BlackRock Inc.s $21.7 billion investment-grade fund: Hutchin Hill Capital, a $3.2 billion manager, bought $431.4 million worth of shares in the last three months of the year. The position, more than 10 percent of Hutchin Hills assets, made the hedge-fund firm the ETFs biggest buyer in the period, according to data compiled by Bloomberg based on regulatory filings. More from Bloomberg.com: Most Chinese Stocks Decline After Holiday; Macau Casinos Plunge State Street Corp.s $4.1 billion short-term junk-bond ETF shows a similar picture, with Pine River Capital Management buying $196.8 million worth of shares. Why are hedge funds putting so much of their assets into ETFs? Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/hedge-funds-quick-fix-credit-162539740.html

The Vanguard Energy ETF (VDE) Is Much Cheaper than Peers - Yahoo Finance

With respect to ETFs, price tracking error is the difference in the most recent year one-year return between the ETF, and the target benchmark index is known as the benchmark tracking error. For a passive ETF, the tracking error should be low, ideally zero before fees, since the investor expects the ETF to return exactly what the index returns. For an active ETF, the tracking error should be a positive spread to show that the manager was able to generate value above the index returns. Tracking error can vary depending on the complexity and liquidity of the underlying index. For ETFs tracking very liquid indices, its usually below 0.5%.Inthe case of MLPs, it can go beyond 4%. Other non-equity ETFs (likefixed income, real estate, or commodities) also tend to have relatively high tracking errors. The Vanguard Energy ETF (VDE) performs well with respect to both the price tracking error and the NAV tracking error. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/vanguard-energy-etf-vde-much-170543280.html

Stocks Regain Ground After Moving Lower At The Open - U.S. Commentary - NASDAQ.com

economic news, the New York Federal Reserve released a report before the start of trading showing a bigger than expected decrease by its index of regional manufacturing activity. The New York Fed said its headline general business conditions index dipped to 7.8 in February from 10.0 in January. While a positive reading indicates a continued increase in regional manufacturing activity, economists had expected the index to edge down to 9.5. Meanwhile, a separate report from the National Association of Home Builders showed an unexpected deterioration in homebuilder confidence in the month of February. The report said the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index dropped to 55 in February after dipping to 57 in January. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/stocks-regain-ground-after-moving-lower-at-the-open--us-commentary-20150217-00858

View photo A trader is working at his desk in front of the DAX board at the Frankfurt stock exchange February 16, 2015. REUTERS/Remote/Pawel Kopczynski By Lionel Laurent LONDON (Reuters) - European stocks reversed early losses on Tuesday and yields on lower-rated euro zone bonds fell as investors reassessed the collapse of Greek debt talks and focused on the prospects of a deal. The euro also recovered from early losses to rise against the dollar after Monday's breakdown of talks between Greece and euro zone finance ministers. Initial declines on equity markets were modest. "For now, we assume that logic will prevail and this movie won't end in disaster," said Paul OConnor, co-head of the multi-asset desk at Henderson Global Investors. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/shares-euro-retreat-greek-debt-020420586.html

The weakness among gold stocks comes amid a sharp drop by the price of the precious metal, with gold for April delivery plunging $21.30 to $1,205.80 an ounce. Steel stocks are also seeing notable weakness on the day, dragging the NYSE Arca Steel Index down by 1.1 percent. The loss by the index comes after it ended the previous session at its best closing level of 2015. Software and electronic storage stocks are also seeing some weakness in mid-day trading, while strength is visible among biotechnology stocks. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/stocks-seeing-modest-weakness-following-recent-strength--us-commentary-20150217-00944

Stocks Regain Ground After Moving Lower At The Open - U.S. Commentary - NASDAQ.com

While talks between Greece's new government and its eurozone creditors broke down on Monday, traders widely expect that an agreement will eventually be reached. In U.S. economic news, the New York Federal Reserve released a report before the start of trading showing a bigger than expected decrease by its index of regional manufacturing activity. The New York Fed said its headline general business conditions index dipped to 7.8 in February from 10.0 in January. While a positive reading indicates a continued increase in regional manufacturing activity, economists had expected the index to edge down to 9.5. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/stocks-regain-ground-after-moving-lower-at-the-open--us-commentary-20150217-00858

February102015

And no chapter of history is more painful than the battles fought for the Holy Lands between Christians and Muslims during the Middle Ages. Thomas Asbridge, director of the Center for the Study of Islam and the West at the University of London, told The New York Times , Any use of the word Crusade has to be made with great caution. It is the most highly charged word you can use in the context of the Middle East. The propaganda materials produced by ISIS and its savage brethren buttress this claim. One publication, "Dabiq, shows President Obama and Sen. John McCain as crusaders who will bring about the complete collapse of the modern American empire, according to CNN . The magazine is named for the town of Dabiq, site of an Ottoman victory in 1516 that led to the last Islamic Caliphate. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-crusade-video-bolsters-isis-051500756.html

Obama Skips the 'Red Line' on Russia - Yahoo News

"It is our ongoing analysis of what can we do to dissuade Russia from encroaching further and further on Ukrainian territory." Recommended: Stripping a Professor http://www.obamastudentloanforgiveness.net/ of Tenure Over a Blog Post The exchange was notable because of the presence of Merkel, who during a speech on Saturday explicitly rejected the possibility of sending arms to Ukraine on the grounds that it would make the situation worse, and that winning a military conflict with Russia was impossible. She stuck to that position Monday at the White House, even as Obama refused to rule it out. (Merkel said she wanted to make at least one more attempt to broker a ceasefire in the region.) The president is also facing increasing pressure domestically to bolster assistance to Ukraine, and his nominee for defense secretary, Ashton Carter, told a Senate committee last week that he was "very much inclined" toward arming Ukraine. See also The Moment to Arm Ukraine? The debate over arming Ukraine underscores just how frustrated Obama and U.S. allies in Europe are over their inability to force Putin's hand, even in the face of sanctions that have helped tank the Russian economy. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-skips-red-line-russia-212245487--politics.html

Obama, Merkel Rally Behind Diplomacy in Ukraine Conflict - ABC News

Putin has rejected diplomatic means. He seems to move his agenda through military violence." The U.S. and Europe have focused on economic sanctions in their punitive actions against Russia. The penalties, along with plummeting oil prices , have caused significant damage to Russia's economy. The European Union decided Monday to temporarily hold off on ordering more sanctions on the Russians and Ukrainian separatists while awaiting the outcome of this week's peace talks. The U.S. Source: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/merkel-obama-party-talks-ukraine-crisis-28825031

Obama: U.S. Examining All Options for Ukraine If Talks Fail - Yahoo Finance

More from Bloomberg.com: Microsoft Outdoes Apple Bellwether Borrowing Before Rates Rise Obama said the questions being debated about such aid are whether the U.S. can be sure any arms are used effectively and wont fall into the wrong hands, and whether it risks an escalation of the conflict that Ukraine wont be able to sustain. As he has in the past, Obama argued that the most potent weapon of the U.S.-EU alliance is maintaining unity. Merkel agreed, saying close cooperation is one of the strongest signals we can send. Negotiating Tool While Merkel clearly opposes sending arms to Ukraine, she may welcome Obamas ambivalence on the issue in trying to negotiate a peace deal with Putin, said Angela Stent, director of the Center for Eurasian, Russian and East European Studies at Georgetown University in Washington. Merkel can hold out the prospect of U.S. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/video-obama-says-u-examining-181829200.html

Obama: 'Real Differences' With Israel's Netanyahu on Iran - ABC News

Obama spoke Monday at a news conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel (AHN'-geh-lah MEHR'-kuhl). He says as much as he loves Merkel, if she was two weeks out from an election, she wouldn't have received a White House invitation either. But Obama says he suspects she wouldn't have asked for one. Netanyahu plans to address Congress over his concerns about U.S. nuclear negotiations with Iran. Source: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/obama-real-differences-israels-netanyahu-iran-28837144

Notable ETF Inflow Detected - XLI, HON, DHR, CMI - NASDAQ.com

For a complete list of holdings, visit the XLI Holdings page The chart below shows the one year price performance of XLI, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, XLI's low point in its 52 main page week range is $48.83 per share, with $57.73 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $56.20. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average . Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/notable-etf-inflow-detected-xli-hon-dhr-cmi-cm442042

Noteworthy ETF Outflows: IVE, VZ, BAC, COP - NASDAQ.com

The chart below shows the one year price performance of TLT, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, TLT's low point in its 52 week range is $105.60 per share, with $138.50 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $131.52. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average . Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/noteworthy-etf-inflows-tlt-cm442012

Monday's ETF Movers: GDXJ, XTN - NASDAQ.com

Components of that ETF showing particular strength include shares of Rio Alto Mining (RIO.CA), up about 10.4% and shares of Tanzanian Royalty Exploration ( TRX ), up about 3.6% on the day. And underperforming other ETFs today is the SPDR S&P Transportation ETF ( XTN ), down about 1.2% in Monday afternoon trading. Among components of that ETF with the weakest showing on Monday were shares of United Continental Holdings ( UAL ), lower by about 5.2%, and shares of Skywest ( SKYW ), lower by about 5% on the day. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/mondays-etf-movers-gdxj-xtn-cm442160

Monday's ETF with Unusual Volume: IAT - NASDAQ.com

Among the largest underlying components of IVE, in trading today Verizon Communications Inc (Symbol: VZ) is off about 0.3%, Bank of America Corp. (Symbol: BAC) is off about 1.1%, and ConocoPhillips (Symbol: COP) is higher by about 1.3%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the IVE Holdings page The chart below shows the one year price performance of IVE, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, IVE's low point in its 52 week range is $80.77 per share, with $95.64 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $93.05. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average . Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/noteworthy-etf-outflows-ive-vz-bac-cop-cm442039

Noteworthy ETF Inflows: TLT - NASDAQ.com

Regional Banks ETF ( IAT ) is seeing unusually high volume in afternoon trading Monday, with over 1.1 million shares traded versus three month average volume of about 178,000. Components of that ETF with the highest volume on Monday were Regions Financial ( RF ), trading down about 1.4% with over 7.2 million shares changing hands so far this session, and Keycorp ( KEY ), off about 1.3% on volume of over 3.5 million shares. Regional Banks ETF, trading lower by about 1.8%. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/mondays-etf-with-unusual-volume-iat-cm442158

February032015

Stocks Rebound On Support Despite Factory Slowdown

But stocks surged higher into the close after the Dow Jones Industrial Average bounced off of its 200-day moving average, a level that hasnt been tested since October. That gave the bulls the cover they needed to make a move. So they did. Provided by InvestorPlace 020215 dow Stocks Rebound on Support Despite Factory Slowdown In the end, the Dow gained 1.1%, the S&P 500 gained 1.3% as it crossed back over the 2,000 level, and the Nasdaq Composite and the Russell 2000 eachgained 0.9%. Also helping wassome soothing words from Greeces new government, which suggested it would be open to debt restructuring rather than demanding debt forgiveness. Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/inside-the-ticker/stocks-rebound-on-support-despite-factory-slowdown/ar-AA8Uzrl?srcref=rss

Stocks End Higher After Late Rally - Yahoo Finance

Steel, railroad, and banking stocks have also moved notably higher on the day, while some weakness remains visible among airline stocks. Other Markets In overseas trading, stock markets across the Asia-Pacific region turned in a mixed performance during trading on Monday. Japan's Nikkei 225 Index fell by 0.7 percent, while Australia's All Ordinaries Index advanced by 0.6 percent. Meanwhile, the major European markets all moved to the upside on the day. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/stocks-turn-higher-after-seeing-early-weakness--us-commentary-20150202-00752

Stocks try to rebound before data - Yahoo Finance

At midday the Nasdaq, Dow and S&P 500 were up 0.3%, 0.4% and 0.6% respectively. The firm said it earned $6.57 billion in the quarter, down from $8.35 billion in the year-ago period as low oil prices weighed. The company was boosted by its chemical decision and a favorable arbitration ruling regarding Venezuelan assets. Foreign Markets European markets were higher as Greek fears eased somewhat after Prime Minister Tsipras said that Greece will stay in the eurozone. In late trading, the FTSE 100 ww.Prudential best stocks to buy. and Paris CAC were each up 0.4% while Germanys DAX rose 1%. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-turn-higher-consumer-spending-170000976.html

Stocks Turn Higher; Consumer Spending, ISM Data Eyed - Yahoo Finance

But momentum in the broader market appears to be slowing, with the S&P 500 closing below its 50-day moving average almost every session in January. The index has also failed to make new highs following a mid-December pullback, which contrasts notably with how it behaved at other times during the historic bull run of 2013 and 2014. Our researchLAB market scanner shows negative returns in most major sectors recently, especially after poor results sank technology and financial stocks. But isolated groups such as supermarkets, video games, and IT outsourcing have done well. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-try-rebound-data-131243918.html

The closely watched ISM manufacturing index, which measures the strength of the U.S. factory sector, fell to 53.5 in January from 55.1 in December. The reading is the worst in a year and economists had expected the index to come in at 54.3. At market close the Nasdaq, Dow and S&P 500 were up 0.9%, 1.1% and 1.3% respectively. The firm said it earned $6.57 billion in the quarter, down from $8.35 billion in the year-ago period as low oil prices weighed. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-end-higher-rally-214000277.html

January262015

Obama's Alaska Move Triggers Fight - Cnn.com

"But we will not be run over like this. We will fight back with every resource at our disposal." In a video posted on Sunday, Obama said his administration will set the land aside for conservation -- and that he'll ask lawmakers to give the region the United States' highest designation for land protection. "I'm going to be calling on Congress to make sure that they take it one step further, designating it as a wilderness so that we can make sure that this amazing wonder is preserved for future generations," he said. But Alaskan leaders said they're angry about the plan to protect a land that's important to bird, caribou and polar bear populations, with independent Gov. Bill Walker saying he could speed up state land leasing for oil exploration as a result. Murkowski, as the Senate's energy chairwoman, is best positioned to fight Obama's proposal on Capitol Hill. Source: http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/25/politics/obama-alaska-energy-fight/index.html

Obama Takes in India's Grand Republic Day Parade - ABC News

Obama's visit - the first time a president has traveled to India twice while in office - won't allay those concerns completely. But his presence at the widely televised Republic Day military parade sends a unifying message, according to experts. RELATED: Netanyahu visit causes headaches at home and abroad "I think you will see the President and the Prime Minister make it a point to try to appeal to various kinds of symbolism and the President especially reach out and try to connect with the Indian public," said Tanvi Madan, the director of the India Project at The Brookings Institution. Just Watched India, Russia to forge energy partnership 04:39 PLAY VIDEO In the minds of U.S. and Indian officials, even small agreements can begin to amount to larger progress on developing a better relationship between the world's two largest democracies. One area diplomats hope to make progress this week: India's nuclear liability law, signed in 2010, that essentially prevents American firms from constructing plants in the country. Source: http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/23/politics/obama-india-trip-modi/index.html

Washington sighs relief at Saudi succession - CNN.com

View gallery U.S. President Barack Obama shakes hand with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, upon arrival at th In a joint appearance following their meetings, both men went out of their way to illustrate how their personal chemistry was yielding progress on various fronts, from defense, to trade to energy issues. "Barack and I have formed a bond, a friendship," Modi said. "We can laugh and joke and talk easily on the phone. The chemistry that has brought Barack and me closer has also brought Washington and Delhi closer." Obama said: "Your election and your strong personal commitment to the US-India relationship gives us an opportunity to further energize these efforts." Under hazy skies Sunday, Modi greeted Obama with a hug on the airport tarmac and offered an elaborate welcome at the country's sprawling presidential palace. Obama also solemnly laid a wreath at a memorial honoring the father of India's independence movement, Mahatma Gandhi. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-received-warmly-india-seeks-policy-advances-090516922.html

In India, Obama looks to capitalize on new friendship - CNN.com

The tense regional security situation means Washington needs Saudi Arabia as much as ever, even though its domestic oil boom means it no longer relies as heavily on oil supplies from the world's leading oil exporter. Saudi Arabia has backed the U.S.-led coalition fighting Islamic State militants in Iraq and Syria. The two countries are also concerned about Yemen, where the country's U.S.-backed government collapsed last week. "I think they'll touch on those issues, and there will be a chance for us to make sure that we're in good alignment going forward where we have overlapping interests," Rhodes said. "I think you saw the king send a signal that he's committed to continuity in terms of Saudi Arabia's approach to those issues," he said. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-saudi-king-discuss-fight-against-islamist-militants-093810066.html

Smith, who served as U.S. ambassador to Saudi Arabia between 2009 and 2013, said there should be no concern in the administration that Salman's ascension will jeopardize U.S. relations with the deeply conservative kingdom. Lines of succession "We know Salman well, he was governor of Riyadh for the better part of 50 years, he is well known to the US government. I see no break in the U.S.-Saudi relationship," Smith said. Salman vowed just hours after the death of Abdullah, that the kingdom "would continue adhering to the correct policies which Saudi Arabia has followed since its establishment." State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said that the allies had a "long history of cooperation. Source: http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/24/politics/saudi-king-succession-washington/index.html

January242015

Direxion Daily Financial Bull 3X shares (FAS) was up 1.46% and its bearish counterpart, FAZ, was down 3.24%. Bank Of New York Mellon (BK) was down 1.32% after it reported Q4 results that missed the Street view on EPS and total revenues. The bank reported Q4 adjusted EPS of $0.58, up from $0.54 in the same period a year ago but missing analyst estimates of $0.60. Results were adjusted for the previously disclosed benefit of a tax carryback claim. Total revenues of $3.66 billion were down from $3.76 billion in Q4 2013 and missed analyst projections of $3.80 billion. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/etf-preview-etfs-futures-edge-higher-in-the-wake-of-ecbs-qe-program-upbeat-earnings-lift-sentiment-cm435805

Leading industry advisors and experts, such as keynote speaker Douglas Hodge, CEO of PIMCO, provided their view on the ETF industry and positioning for the new year. Attendees heard from panels that covered global strategies, broad investment ideas for 2015, yield generation, risk management, alternative assets and the growing breed of so-called smart-beta indices. Advisors who missed their chance to view the ETF Virtual Summit experience on demand. Financial advisors were asked their views on various hot button topics they were considering in the new year and heard how industry experts believe the markets with pan out. Finance Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/etf-virtual-summit-conference-adivsors-204815900.html

ETF Assets Continue Flowing to Charles Schwab - Yahoo Finance

The ETF is up more than half a percent Friday, but if critics want to nitpick, it should be acknowledged that volume is already nearly 10% above the daily average. Heading into 2015, institutional investors were overweight Thai equities, a position that has been rewarded, at least as far as THD is concerned. Entering Friday, the Thailand ETF was up 5.2% to start the year, the second-best performance among the major single-country ETFs tracking Southeast Asian economies. [A Roaring Asian Tiger ETF] Thailands SET Index is among Asias best performers in 2015. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/thailand-etf-again-shrugs-off-181359069.html

Leading industry advisors and experts, such as keynote speaker Douglas Hodge, CEO of PIMCO, provided their view on the ETF industry and positioning for the new year. Attendees heard from panels that covered global strategies, broad investment ideas for 2015, yield generation, risk management, alternative assets and the growing breed of so-called smart-beta indices. Advisors who missed their chance to view the ETF Virtual Summit experience on demand. Financial advisors were asked their views on various hot button topics they were considering in the new year and heard how industry experts believe the markets with pan out. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/etf-virtual-summit-conference-advisors-204815270.html

Thailand ETF Again Shrugs Off Political Fears - Yahoo Finance

Another prominent theme is investors increased use of sector and dividend ETFs. As of Dec. 26, there was $311.1 billion allocated to sector ETFs with energy ETFs accounting for $44.7 billion of that total, according to Bloomberg . http://www.etftradingsignals.com There was a shift back to Sector ETFs, which represented 19% of flows, versus 7% in 2013. Real Estate was back in favor, accounting for nearly half of the Sector flows. Flows into all Sector categories were positive, except for Consumer Cyclical, according to Schwab. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/etf-assets-continue-flowing-charles-193036836.html

Q&A: Why China's stock market plunged 8 percent - Yahoo News

Chinese shares plunged more than 8 percent Monday after the country's securities regulator imposed margin trading curbs on several major brokerages, a sign that authorities are trying to rein in the market's big gains. Other Asian stock markets were mostly higher. (AP Photo) CHINA OUT Chinese stocks plunged Monday after the country's securities regulator rapped three major brokerages for continuing to lend money for stock purchases in violation of rules. As punishment for extending so called "margin trading" contracts, the brokerages are forbidden to offer credit to new customers for three months. HOW MUCH DID SHARES FALL? Source: http://news.yahoo.com/q-why-chinas-stock-market-plunged-8-percent-074400223--finance.html

Asian Stocks Rise After Oil Surge Boosts S&P 500 Index - Bloomberg

Bank stocks were hit after the banking regulator issued draft rules to tighten supervision of entrusted loans, a kind of shadow banking. The banks sub-index plummeted 9.97 percent and the financial sub-index sank 9.62 percent. All China CSI300 stock index futures were down at least 10 percent, except the September index which dove 12 percent. The CSI300 index of the largest listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen fell 7.7 percent, to 3,355.16. The Shanghai Composite Index also lost 7.7 percent, to 3,116.35 points. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/china-stocks-suffer-biggest-one-073015541.html

The China market was one of the world's best performers in 2014, thanks to surge of more than 40 percent in the last quarter. That was led by brokerages, which tumbled on Monday as authorities took steps to slash speculative trading. China's securities regulator punished industry heavyweights for illegal operations in their margin trading. Banks were hit after the banking regulator issued draft rules to tighten supervision of entrusted loans, a kind of shadow banking product. Monday's fall came a day before China reports fourth-quarter and full-year economic growth data. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/china-stocks-suffer-biggest-one-072041633.html

Muni ETFs May Be More Attractive Than Treasuries - Yahoo Finance

MUB has a 6.37 year effective duration and a 1.54% 30-day SEC yield, or a 2.73% taxable equivalent 30-day SEC yield. Nevertheless, muni debt is close to their cheapest since December 2013 relative to Treasuries. Looking at the rates on state and local bonds relative to federal debt, the ratio of interest rates hit 106 percent Thursday, which suggest that municipal bonds have weakened relative to the federal debt. Historically, the muni-to-Treasuries ratio has been below 100% since interest on state and local debt is tax-exempt, which make the assets more attractive for high-income investors. Yields on benchmark 10-year Treasuries touched 1.756% Thursday. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/muni-etfs-may-more-attractive-130047649.html

8:56 am Health Care REIT prices 15.5 mln shares of common stock at $63.75 per share ( HCN ) : 8:52 am Glatfelter to acquire electrical papers producer Spezialpapierfabrik Oberschmitten for ~$11 mln; expected to be $0.03-0.05 accretive to 2015 EPS ( GLT ) : Co announced it has signed a definitive agreement to purchase all of the outstanding equity of Spezialpapierfabrik Oberschmitten GmbH from FINSPO Beteiligungs-GmbH for ~$11 mln. SPO has annual sales of approximately 25 mln.The company expects to incur ~$2-3 mlnof one-time acquisition and integration costs. Excluding one-time costs, the addition of SPO is expected to be $0.03 to $0.05 accretive to earnings per share in 2015. 8:46 am Diana Containerships announces delivery of a Post-Panamax container vessel, the m/v YM March ( DCIX ) : Co announced that, through a separate wholly-owned subsidiary, it took delivery of the m/v "YM March", a 2004-built Post-Panamax container vessel of 5,576 TEU capacity that the co entered into an agreement to purchase on August 7, 2014. 8:40 am European Markets Update: DAX -0.2%, CAC -0.1%, FTSE +0.2% (:SUMRX) : Major European indices trade little changed with Great Britain's FTSE (+0.2%) in the lead. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/inplay-briefing-com-175538006.html

InPlay from Briefing.com - Yahoo Finance

Meaningful appreciation may be limited in 2015, as the two factors that would most lift this ETF, a resurgent Japanese economy, and some clawback of the yen's position relative to the dollar, may be a year or more away. For those who want to take part in a favorable outcome of Abenomics, there's little harm in waiting to commit funds until the success of Abe's policies is both imminent and unambiguous. 1 great stock to buy for 2015 and beyond 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure that 2015 is your best investing year ever, you need to know where to start. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/3-reasons-the-ishares-msci-japan-etf-may-fall-in-2015-cm433827

3 Reasons the iShares MSCI Japan ETF May Fall in 2015 - NASDAQ.com

New York's attorney general has reached agreement with Five Star Bank requiring it stop excluding predominantly minority neighborhoods in the Rochester area. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman says an investigation showed the New York-chartered bank left those neighborhoods out of its lending area, deemed loans there "undesirable" and excluded borrowers seeking mortgages of $75,000 or less, effectively making many of its loans unavailable there. Five Star has 49 branches across western New York with 19 in the Rochester area, but none in the city itself. It added the city to its lending area in 2013. The agreement requires opening two new branches. The first has been approved for Rochester's new CityGate development. Source: http://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/2015/01/18/ny-attorney-general-settles-case-with-5-star-bank-intended-to-end/

Tom Talks Tech ETFs on CNBC - Yahoo Finance

Lydon notes that ahead of expected global volatility, investors can take shelter with ETFs heavy on mature, cash-rich technology companies and that select tech sector ETFs are solid ideas for combating future rate hikes by the Federal Reserve. The opinions and forecasts expressed herein are solely those of Tom Lydon, and may not actually come to pass. Information on this site should not be used or construed as an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation for any product. Finance Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/tom-talks-tech-etfs-cnbc-225051649.html

January112015

Obama Won't Attend Paris March - Yahoo News

Ever since the bloody shooting that killed 12 people at satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo on Wednesday -- followed by separate attacks that left five more people dead -- Obama has made repeated declarations in support of America's "oldest ally." But he will not join other leaders including British Prime Minister David Cameron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, all set to attend the march. More than a million people were expected to go. "I want the people of France to know that the United States stands with you today, stands with you tomorrow," Obama said Friday, following three days of bloodshed. On Thursday, Obama wrote the Gallic slogan "Vive la France!" in a condolence book during a visit to the embassy in Washington. Executive Branch Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-wont-attend-paris-march-005805048.html

Obama to Host British Prime Minister David Cameron Next Week - ABC News

movie theaters until Sony agreed to cancel the Christmas release of its film "The Interview." The comedy depicts an assassination plot against North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Sony eventually released the film online and in a small number of theaters. On Wednesday, Obama will be in Iowa to talk about making affordable, high-speed Internet more available nationwide. Traditionally, the White House closely guards the details of plans to be offered in the State of the Union until just before the president delivers the nationally televised address. But in a bid to generate excitement for the speech as he begins the next-to-last year of his presidency, Obama began previewing new initiatives during the week, including programs to boost homeownership by reducing mortgage insurance premiums and increase access to higher education by paying for the first two years of community college for Americans who meet certain criteria. "I didn't want to wait for the State of the Union to talk about all the things that make this country great and how we can make it better, so I thought I'd get started this week," Obama said Wednesday direct loan forgiveness in Michigan, where he discussed a rebounding U.S. Source: http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory/obama-focus-cybersecurity-issues-week-28135893

Obama to Focus on Cybersecurity Issues Next Week - ABC News

Their meeting follows the worst terrorist attack in France in decades. Seventeen people were slain in attacks on a satirical newspaper, police and a kosher supermarket during a three-day spree across Paris. The White House says the leaders will share a working dinner on Thursday, and then meet in the Oval Office on Friday to discuss a range of issues, from economic growth and international trade to the rise of Islamist militants and Russia's actions in Ukraine . Cameron is among world leaders planning to attend a mass anti-terrorism rally Sunday in Paris. Attorney General Eric Holder is attending a separate Paris meeting on fighting terrorism. Join the Discussion Source: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/obama-host-british-prime-minister-david-cameron-week-28139258

Obama pitching initiatives ahead of State of the Union speech - CNN.com

This comes just after the House of Representatives voted to approve the controversial Keystone XL pipeline, but its fate is uncertain in the Senate. The White House has promised a veto of that measure if it reaches the President's desk. On Monday, the President will visit the Federal Trade Commission, where he will lay out proposals and executive action on identity theft, Internet privacy and technology in schools, the official said. Next week, Obama will speak about the government's efforts to work with the private sector on cybersecurity and will travel to Iowa, where he will focus on increasing access to high-speed broadband across the country. This is all part of a new tactic by the White House to build support for its initiatives before the annual January 20 address. Ordinarily, presidents have held these types of events after the speech. Source: http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/10/politics/obama-sotu-initiatives/index.html

Obama to host Cameron next week at White House - Yahoo News

On Thursday, the pair will have a working dinner, before meeting in the Oval Office on Friday. The White House statement made no explicit mention of the attacks in France that left 17 people dead this week, but said Obama and Cameron -- who are believed to enjoy close working ties -- will discuss counterterrorism efforts and IS extremists. "The United Kingdom is a uniquely close friend and steadfast ally, and the president looks forward to beginning the New Year by working with Prime Minister Cameron on these issues and reaffirming the enduring special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom," the White House statement said. Britain has been one of Washington's chief partners in the US-led bombing raids of the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria. View gallery US President Barack Obama (L) and British Prime Minister David Cameron depart after holding a press Economic growth, international trade, cybersecurity and Iran will also be on the weighty agenda in next week's talks. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-host-cameron-thursday-friday-214906273.html

January092015

Obama Is Sending The Wrong Message On Owning A Home - Yahoo News

President Obama has announced another executive maneuver meant to make it easier for first-time buyers and those on the cusp of qualifying for a mortgage to become home owners. The Federal Housing Administration will reduce the annual cost of mortgage insurance for people receiving subsidized FHA loans from 1.35% of the borrowed amount to 0.85%. That cut should save the typical borrower about $900 per year, according to the White House. The FHA move comes on top of other measures meant to make home ownership easier for middle- and low-income borrowers, such as recent moves by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to allow lower down payments for some borrowers and to ease standards for lenders , which ought to make mortgages easier to get. The housing recovery has been a notable weak spot in an otherwise improving economy, with home values still about 10% below peak values from 2006. Tough lending standards, meanwhile, have kept many potential buyers on the sidelines. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-is-sending-the-wrong-message-on-owning-a-home-190228471.html

Obama Pays Respects at French Embassy After Paris Attack - ABC News

Behind him hung a painting of George Washington at Yorktown with French Gen. Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, better known as Count Rochambeau. "As allies across the centuries, we stand united with our French brothers to ensure that justice is done and our way of life is defended," Obama wrote. "We go forward together knowing that terror is no match for freedom and ideals we stand for ? ideals that light the world." He signed off with "Vive la France !" Afterward, Obama stood briefly near the table with his head bowed in a moment of silence before shaking hands with embassy personnel. Obama has denounced the "cowardly, evil attacks" that took place Wednesday at the offices of the satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo. Source: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/obama-pays-respects-french-embassy-paris-attack-28098461

Under the proposal, participating students would be expected to maintain a modest grade point average and participating schools would have to meet certain academic requirements. States would opt in to the program and put up a fraction of the funding. "Put simply, what I'd like to do is to see the first two years of community college free for everybody who is willing to work for it," the president said. David Baime, vice president for government relations at the American Association of Community Colleges, called the plan an "extraordinary" investment. He said the essence of the proposal is to reduce the cost of attending community college and "that is a concept that we heartily endorse." Last year, Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam signed into law a scholarship program using lottery funding that provides free community and technical college tuition for two years to the state's high school graduates. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-propose-free-community-college-program-233139588--politics.html

Take our quiz on inequality and incomes. FHA loans currently account for about 15 percent of new mortgages, a sizable chunk thats heavy on low-income households and first-time buyers. The insurance premiums cover the cost of loans that go bad, and the administration says the FHA program will remain financially sound. President Obama touted the shift in a speech Thursday in Phoenix a city that saw some of the best of an epic housing boom a decade ago and the worst of a housing bust that followed. Over time, this is going to potentially have an impact over millions of families all across the country, Mr. Obama said. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-cutting-mortgage-fees-fha-borrowers-good-news-202947262.html

Obama proposes free community college program - Yahoo News

When a buyer cannot qualify for an affordable mortgage because a bank is concerned about their ability to repay the loan, the FHA can step in and offer a guarantee to the bank that it will bear some or all of the losses in the event of a default The price is a guarantee fee, which is typically paid by the borrower in the form of a higher monthly mortgage payment. Related: White House Rolls Out State of the Union Spoilers download The presidents order would knock the guarantee fee down by half a percentage point. The move wont cause a major shift in the housing market, but it will allow many buyers who are currently right on the margin in terms of being able to afford a home, to get the loans they need. In a post on Medium yesterday, White House Senior Adviser Dan Pfeiffer said the move was necessary because homeownership is out of reach for too many Americans families who can afford to buy a home, but find themselves shut out because the lending market is too tight. Thats why the President will announce a new executive action that will help more responsible Americans own a home, building on efforts already underway to cut red tape that holds them back. However, combined with a recent move by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to allow first-time buyers to purchase their homes with as little as 3 percent down, the changes to FHA loans have some critics warning that weve been down this road before. Related: What Chickens and Gold Have in Common: Lower Prices Given the current state of the economy, there is no reasonable argument for the need to support housing to boost the economy, said economist Charles Calomiris, an adjunct fellow at the Manhattan Institute. Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-ease-mortgage-rules-800-181200498.html

Stocks begin New Year to the upside - Yahoo Finance

In a note on Friday, MKM's Jonathan Krinsky said that this has happened 10 times since 1980, with the average return for the S&P 500 coming at around 7% after this occurrence. 4. Oil had a wild day to start 2015, in-line with what the commodity has seen happen over the second half of 2014. In early trade on Friday, West Texas Intermediate crude oil fell to $52.03 a barrel, the lowest since April 2009. WTI rallied back above $53 through the afternoon but into the close was hovering at around $52.70 a barrel. 5. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-nowhere-heres-know-210000886.html

Stocks sluggish for first day of trading in 2015 | The Herald-Dispatch

look decent, in Europe and Asia they are less encouraging. Investors are "stepping back and saying, 'now we're in the New Year, let's take a fresh look,' " said McMillan. "There's certainly some degree of, I wouldn't say pessimism, but readjustment, going on." The Standard & Poor's 500 index fell 0.70 points, or less than 0.1 percent, to 2,058.20. The Dow Jones industrial average rose 9.92 points, or less than 0.1 percent, to 17,832.99. Source: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/business/x984730621/Stocks-sluggish-for-first-day-of-trading-in-2015

The S&P 500 slid into the closing bell on Wednesday and is back below its record high earlier in the week. Sentiment has benefited from signs that the consumer economy is returning what are the top 100 stocks to buy to where it stood before the 2008 financial crisis. There have also been few catalysts to drive trading recently, although the calendar is more active in coming weeks. The Institute for Supply Management's manufacturing index at 10 a.m. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-begin-upside-131155700.html

ETF Trade Ideas for First-Half 2015 - Barron's

A popular tactic for capturing ETF assets from registered investment advisors, financial planners and retail investors has been to offer menus of ETFs ETF in Trading on a commission-free basis. Not only have brokers such as Charles Schwab ( SCHW ), Fidelity and TD Ameritrade ( AMTD ) offered select ETFs to clients sans commissions, the firms have routinely boosted the number of ETFs clients can access without commissions . In 2014, we examined Fidelitys and Schwabs commission-free ETF lineups in an effort to unearth some of the most well-known ETFs on each platform. In September, Schwab added 65 from various issuers to Schwab ETF OneSource, bringing the number of commission-free offerings on the platform to 182. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/sampling-td-ameritrade-commission-free-130007808.html

An Internet ETF to Capture Rising E-Commerce - Yahoo Finance

As more Americans turn to mobile devices to conveniently shop online, e-commerce internet companies could power up. Click here to listen to the podcast. To access previous podcasts, take a look at our podcasts category . The opinions and forecasts expressed herein are solely those of Tom Lydon, and may not actually come to pass. Information on this site should not be used or construed as an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation for any product. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/internet-etf-capture-rising-e-180031043.html

FBI Subjects Employees To Internal Surveillance: NYT | Fox Business

The program began after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, and is meant to stop foreign spies from infiltrating the FBI. Employees who are part of the program, which is called the Post-Adjudication Risk Management plan, are subjected to frequent security interviews, polygraph tests, scrutiny of their travel records, and reviews of their electronic files, the Times reported. Copyright 2015 MarketWatch, Inc. Source: http://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/2015/01/03/fbi-subjects-employees-to-internal-surveillance-nyt/

December272014

Experts did away with the recent notion that ETFs are a better investment than betting on individual stocks on Wednesday. David Nelson, chief strategist of Belpointe Asset Management, a Greenwich-based wealth management firm, said investors should shift attention back to individual stocks from overall indexes. "We're past the time of index investing," he said in an interview on CNBC's "Closing Bell." "All the liquidity (the Fed) pumped in brought up the bad with the good, and we're seeing less of that." Read More 10 rookie ETFs that raked in the 2014 cash Peter Costa, president of Empire Executions, a New York City-based trading firm, said in the same interview he agreed with Nelson's analysis. "In a growing market, everyone's a genius," he said. "When the market starts selling off, that's when bottom-down research becomes very important." Read More Are these ETFs cutting-edge or just plain crazy? Both men agreed that stock picking would be the best way to invest in 2015, but their approach in picking stocks deviates. Source: http://www.cnbc.com/id/102294677?__source=yahoonews&par=yahoonews

Investors should go back to picking stocks: Experts

Coca-Cola (KO) plans to cut at least 1,000 to 2,000 jobs in the coming weeks, according to a Tuesday report by The Wall Street Journal, citing unnamed insiders. It cited one person as saying the cuts could exceed 2,000 jobs. Notices will go out to North American employees Jan. 8 and international employees will be given a timeline for cuts by Jan. 15, the report said. The company is also telling executives to tighten their belts, swapping limousines for taxis, and has dropped a lavish Christmas party for Wall Street analysts. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/etf-preview-etfs-futures-higher-as-jobless-claims-fall-to-lowest-level-in-seven-weeks-cm426577

Buy Europe Without Euro Risk With This New ETF - ETF News And Commentary - NASDAQ.com

This, coupled with an accommodative central bank, undoubtedly warrants a look at the Euro zone to earn some quick gains. However, this return can be curtailed on repatriation as the U.S. dollar is hovering at multi-year highs on QE taper and rising rate risk for next year. In such a scenario, possessing DBEZ, which is protected from currency translation, in one's portfolio might be a wise decision (read: 3 European ETFs Worth Considering on ECB Measures ). Competition The European ETF space is pretty competitive, so it could be slightly tough for the new entrant to build up assets. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/buy-europe-without-euro-risk-with-this-new-etf-etf-news-and-commentary-cm426916

ETF Trends To Watch For In 2015 - NASDAQ.com

The ETN follows the S&P MLP Index and charges 80 bps in fees per year from investors. It sees good volume of about 147,000 shares per day on average and has added 4.2% so far this year (read: 3 Promising MLP ETFs Now on Sale). stock market, volatility has also been on the rise thanks to global economic slowdown concerns, geopolitical tensions, and lower oil prices. As a result, many investors have taken advantage of the rising volatility while protecting their long equity positions simultaneously by investing in volatility hedged equity ETFs. Investors should note that the space is not much crowded and most of the products gained greater traction this year. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/3-thriving-etfs-over-500-180006124.html

The New Year will offer up several interesting new trends that ETF investors should take note of and ultimately may consider for inclusion in their portfolios. Ultimately, there are only so many ways you can slice and dice a subset to securities in the quest to market new investment opportunities. 2014 marked a significant number of active and smart beta http://www.etftradingsignals.com/ ETFs being released with several accumulating hundreds of millions in assets. I expect that 2015 will usher in additional active strategies that allow investment managers the flexibility to enhance their returns though security selection, position sizing, and research. In addition, competition in this space should significantly reduce fund expenses as ETF providers fight to differentiate themselves and attract assets. Currently most active ETFs have expense ratios ranging between 0.50%-1.00%. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/etf-trends-to-watch-for-in-2015-cm426411

December252014

Obama, Malaysian Pm Hit The Links In Hawaii - Yahoo News

View photo US President Barack Obama watches Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razzak prepare to putt as they play golf at Marine Corps Base Hawaii on December 24, 2014 (AFP Photo/Nicholas Kamm) US President Barack Obama, on vacation in Hawaii, tends to golf with buddies and aides, but on Wednesday mixed things up, hitting the links with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak. "The president and Prime Minister Najib of Malaysia enjoyed golf together today," a White House official said. "The two leaders took the opportunity to discuss the growing and warming relationship between the United States and Malaysia." In addition, Obama is looking forward to working with the prime minister in 2015 when Malaysia chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the official said. Obama, who usually plays at the Marine Corps base in Kaneohe Bay when in Hawaii, made the first visit by a sitting US president to Malaysia in decades last year. Politics & Government Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-malaysian-pm-hit-links-hawaii-045311163.html

Obama Tees off in Hawaii With Malaysian Leader - ABC News

troops and their families. In the presidents weekly address issued on Christmas Eve, Obama said the holiday was a time to step back and reflect on the sacrifices of military families. ADVERTISEMENT Were able to gather with family and friends because our troops are willing to hug theirs goodbye and step forward to serve. After a long day, we can come home because theyre willing to leave theirfamiliesand deploy. We can celebrate the holidays because theyre willing to miss their own, Obama said. Obamas address was basically free from politics, except for a comment about how the combat mission in Afghanistan would soon be over. Obama, who hopes to have all troops removed from Afghanistan at the end of his presidency, said that when the combat mission ends, our longest war will come to a responsible end. The White House earlier this month in a blog post noted that there were 180,000 U.S. Source: http://thehill.com/homenews/administration/228080-obama-notes-end-of-afghan-war-in-christmas-address

Najib, too, missed his next shot, but a gracious Obama gave him a pat on the shoulder and praised his golf game just the same. "Merry Christmas," Obama said as he waved to the media. Then he added a note of caution for reporters covering his Hawaiian getaway. "Be careful about those fruity drinks," he said. "You never know - they might have a little kick to them." Ever the statesmen, Obama and Najib also used their time on the course to discuss world affairs, including Malaysia's rotating leadership next year of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN. Source: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/obama-tees-off-hawaii-malaysian-leader-27820631

Obama notes end of Afghanistan war in Christmas address | TheHill

( Christi Parsons and Kathleen Hennessey ) It was just last week that Obama called it a mistake for Sony to scuttle plans for releasing the film, which is about a wacky plot to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, amid threatened retaliatory attacks. The entertainment industry should not engage in self-censorship for fear of offending foreign dictators like North Korea's president, Obama said at a White House news conference. By Monday, Sony announced it would go ahead with a limited release in theaters starting Christmas Day. And on Wednesday, the studio made the film available to rent on platforms such as YouTube, Google Play and Microsoft's Xbox Video. Here comes the President Haters. They'll start blaming him for the hacking instead of the dictator and will give the dictator more respect. Source: http://www.latimes.com/nation/politics/politicsnow/la-pn-obama-the-interview-20141224-story.html?track=rss

Obama, Malaysian Pm Hit The Links In Hawaii - Yahoo News

View photo US President Barack Obama watches Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razzak prepare to putt as they play golf at Marine Corps Base Hawaii on December 24, 2014 (AFP Photo/Nicholas Kamm) US President Barack Obama, on vacation in Hawaii, tends to golf with buddies and aides, but on Wednesday mixed things up, hitting the links with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak. "The president and Prime Minister Najib of Malaysia enjoyed golf together today," a White House official said. "The two leaders took the opportunity to discuss the growing and warming relationship between the United States and Malaysia." In addition, Obama is looking forward to working with the prime minister in 2015 when Malaysia chairs the Association student loan forgiveness Obama of Southeast Asian Nations, the official said. Obama, who usually plays at the Marine Corps base in Kaneohe Bay when in Hawaii, made the first visit by a sitting US president to Malaysia in decades last year. Politics & Government Source: http://news.yahoo.com/obama-malaysian-pm-hit-links-hawaii-045311163.html

Obama Tees off in Hawaii With Malaysian Leader - ABC News

troops and their families. In the presidents weekly address issued on Christmas Eve, Obama said the holiday was a time to step back and reflect on the sacrifices of military families. ADVERTISEMENT Were able to gather with family and friends because our troops are willing to hug theirs goodbye and step forward to serve. After a long day, we can come home because theyre willing to leave theirfamiliesand deploy. We can celebrate the holidays because theyre willing to miss their own, Obama said. Obamas address was basically free from politics, except for a comment about how the combat mission in Afghanistan would soon be over. Obama, who hopes to have all troops removed from Afghanistan at the end of his presidency, said that when the combat mission ends, our longest war will come to a responsible end. The White House earlier this month in a blog post noted that there were 180,000 U.S. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan when Obama took office, but there will be fewer than 15,000 at years end. Source: http://thehill.com/homenews/administration/228080-obama-notes-end-of-afghan-war-in-christmas-address

By Monday, Sony announced it would go ahead with a limited release in theaters starting Christmas Day. And on Wednesday, the studio made the film available to rent on platforms such as YouTube, Google Play and Microsoft's Xbox Video. Here comes the President Haters. They'll start blaming him for the hacking instead of the dictator and will give the dictator more respect. Sad, sad,Sad. King James -1 5 For now, it appears Obama would prefer to enjoy time in the open air rather than stay inside to watch movies. Source: http://www.latimes.com/nation/politics/politicsnow/la-pn-obama-the-interview-20141224-story.html?track=rss

Obama notes end of Afghanistan war in Christmas address | TheHill

Bush in 2002, rebuked the agency for completing the criminal conspiracy by delivering undocumented children caught at the border to their parents living illegally in the U.S. The judge complained in a December 2013 opinion that the undocumented parents werent arrested or deported after being reunited with their kids, and taxpayers were footing the transit bills. Drug Cartels The biggest beneficiaries of the conspiracy, Hanen said, are the Mexican drug cartels that control the border smuggling rings, whove learned to rely on the U.S. government to finish the job of the human traffickers if they get caught. Instead of enforcing the law of the United States, the government took direct steps to help the individuals who violated it, Hanen wrote in his opinion that followed a string of child-trafficking convictions in his court. Source: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-12-24/obama-immigration-policy-critic-to-decide-states-lawsuit-1-.html

Najib, too, missed his next shot, but a gracious Obama gave him a pat on the shoulder and praised his golf game just the same. "Merry Christmas," Obama said as he waved to the media. Then he added a note of caution for reporters covering his Hawaiian getaway. "Be careful about those fruity drinks," he said. "You never know - they might have a little kick to them." Ever the statesmen, Obama and Najib also used their time on the course to discuss world affairs, including Malaysia's rotating leadership next year of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN. "The two leaders took the opportunity to discuss the growing and warming relationship between the United States and Malaysia," the White House said in a statement. Source: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/obama-tees-off-hawaii-malaysian-leader-27820631

But the nomination expired a week later, and must now be re-submitted to the committee, with Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., as its likely chairman, in the next session of Congress. A spokesperson for McCain said he is traveling and could not be reached for comment on whether he would support Starzak's nomination going forward. Asked whether Starzak would be re-nominated, Navy Commander Amy Derrick-Frost, a Pentagon spokeswoman, sent Fox News a terse email message: "We have no announcements at this time regarding the nomination." Likewise, Bernadette Meehan, a spokesperson for the National Security Council, speaking for the White House, said only: "We are working through the holidays reviewing paperwork and making decisions about how and when we'll re-nominate people who were not confirmed in the last Congress. We will obviously have more information when the next Congress begins." Starzak declined to comment for this article. The majority staff of SSCI, led by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., has accused CIA of improperly monitoring the work of the congressional staffers, who were given office space at a secure facility in northern Virginia and access to millions of classified CIA documents that were stored on a secure computer network, in 2009-10. The staffers reviewed the documents as part of SSCI's efforts to produce a 6,000-page report on CIA's treatment of detainees in the post-9/11 era. Earlier this month, Feinstein released an unclassified 500-page summary of that report. The agency, in turn, accused SSCI staffers of improperly helping themselves to the Panetta Review; one senior intelligence official, speaking to Fox News on background, flatly accused the staffers of having "stolen" the document. Source: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2014/12/24/obamas-nominee-for-pentagon-post-implicated-in-alleged-theft-cia-documents/

December202014

Stocks To Sustain Momentum - Ahead Of Wall Street - Nasdaq.com

STOCKS RISE TO FINISH A WILD WEEK: Here's What You Need To Know - Yahoo Finance

Red Hat ( RHT ), on the other hand, came out with better-than-expected results. These results and the same from others in recent days are for these companies' fiscal quarters ending in November; we do count these reports as part of our December quarter earnings tally. As such, one could say that we have started seeing the early Q4 results already. That said, the reporting cycle will really get going only around mid-January. Source: http://www.nasdaq.com/article/stocks-to-sustain-momentum-ahead-of-wall-street-cm425237

Premarkets: 4 things to know before the open - Dec. 19, 2014

Dow Jones: The Dow Jones branded indices are proprietary to and are calculated, distributed and marketed by DJI Opco, a subsidiary of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC and have been licensed for use to S&P Opco, LLC and CNN. Standard & Poor's and S&P are registered trademarks of Standard & Poors Financial Services LLC and Dow Jones is a registered trademark of Dow Jones Trademark Holdings LLC. All content of the Dow Jones branded indices S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC 2014 and/or its affiliates. 2014 Cable News Network. Source: http://money.cnn.com/2014/12/19/investing/premarket-stocks-trading/index.html

Stocks inch higher following rallies - Yahoo Finance

Market Stocks were higher today following the largest two-day rally in years. There were no major economic news releases this morning although Wednesdays FOMC statement that the central bank would be patient in raising rates remained in focus. At market close the Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq were up 0.2%, 0.5% and 0.4% respectively. Stocks on the Move Wide-moat Nike (NKE) delivered another strong quarter of growth (revenue up 15% to $7.4 billion and earnings per share up 25% to $0.74) and is now pushing returns on capital over the mid-20% range. Further, the firm is also leveraging demand creation and overhead expenses, which grew 17% year over year, below the 24% growth in net income, which was driven by a 120-basis-point increase in gross margin. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-end-big-week-higher-215000168.html

While energy stocks have gained the most, technology and healthcare names have also outperformed. In particular, telecom suppliers, network-security companies, health insurers, and biotechnology firms have been strong. Our researchLAB market scanner also shows buying in the pharmacy industry and department stores. The economic backdrop is shifting but is still favorable. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-inch-higher-following-rallies-131051518.html

Stocks End Big Week Higher - Yahoo Finance

Oil rallied on Friday, with West Texas Intermediate top ten best stock investment companies ph crude futures gaining more than 5% at one point to nearly $59 a barrel. The rally in oil came as the commodity remains at the center of the market's attention. The number of US oil rigs in operation, however, declined again last week, according to the latest report from Baker Hughes. Baker Hughes said that US rigs in operation fell by 18 to 1,875 after last week showed that 27 rigs fell out of operation, which was the biggest weekly drop in almost two years. 4. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-rise-finish-wild-week-210000069.html